Total Network Surveillance and Self Healing Networks

Self Healing Networks are fast becoming a reality. This presentation discusses an approach to self healing with integrated surveillance. The three major components necessary for self healing; automated alerting, analysis and restoration, are presented. Included are the surveillance of digital networks and the relationship to self healing networks. The importance of improved surveillance and the affects of new network technologies including high capacity fiber and digital switching is examined. The issues associated with today's operations environment and the required automation to achieve self healing are also presented. The operational aspects of trouble isolation and work force management are also discussed. The advantages of automated service restoration with respect to repair functions is included. AT&T is currently deploying the first installations with this approach. Early applications include high capacity fiber networks controlled through advanced digital cross connect systems. Results from these applications will be available for discussion at the February conference. In addition, second generation applications are expected to be underway.